Artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) are poised to reshape the landscape of hybrid electronics technology and manufacturing, enable the development of smarter edge devices, accelerate the design process, improve process control, and increase system intelligence. NextFlex is leading the hybrid electronics community’s evolution in these areas.
Earlier this year, NextFlex held its AI for Hybrid Electronics Workshop in Boston, convening thought leaders from across the industrial base to discuss how AI and ML are transforming every aspect of the field and how they will continue to revolutionize the value chain. The workshop focused on breakouts in the areas of “design to deployment,” and “materials, process, and manufacturing.” The meeting explored topics such as how AI/ML tools can accelerate circuit layout generation—including for complex 3D and conformal designs—optimize material selection and process parameters and enable real-time in situ monitoring with closed-loop control to improve yield and consistency. In addition, the integration of AI/ML into devices allows for local decision-making, predictive maintenance, dynamic system calibration, empowering responsive, autonomous operation at the point of use and supply chain logistics optimization.
From smarter circuit layout and toolpath optimization to predictive maintenance and real-time closed-loop control, the workshop highlighted both promising applications and the roadblocks we must overcome together—like data interoperability, workforce readiness, and IP protection.
NextFlex is building on this momentum and expanding its national leadership through two critical new initiatives: an AI for Hybrid Electronics Webinar Series and the development of a new AI Roadmap for Hybrid Electronics. The webinar series will address the clear call from the community for collecting and sharing information on capabilities, opportunities, and activities in this exciting area. Throughout the series, webinars will discuss everything from product capabilities to research concepts, materials development to product testing, and design to manufacturing. The webinars are meant to explore, inform, and inspire.